Jaw-dropping Jewels about Jesus
Rarely does Jesus, God the Son, do exactly what we expect of Him. It seems odd that He so frequently surprises us, given that He never changes. Hebrews 13:8 makes this absolute statement: “Jesus the same yesterday, and today, and forever.” Still, though He is blessedly consistent in His goodness, Jesus does unforeseen things. Even when He does what is expected, He does not always do it in the way that we anticipate. Let us join with Jesus on a jaw-dropping journey. (I will be using this opening paragraph for each of the brief messages in this series. The following material will change daily.)
Before we move on in the Gospel of Mark, let us again heed the warnings of Jesus, for He taught that there are different ways that we can distance ourselves from Him. For example, His family did not initially follow Him (3:31-35). Their attempt to control Jesus directs us to the danger of familiarity – a potential problem for older Christians like me. A stubborn clinging to a particular sin certainly is harmful. The extreme example of Herod Antipas (Mark 6:14-29) shows us where habitual sin will inevitably and ultimately lead. Even as infatuation with something decidedly good – miracles! – can deflect us from a good relationship with Jesus. Those whom Jesus fed (6:30-44; John 6:26-66) were more interested in more food than more teaching. As we have studied during the last week and a half, a focus on rules and traditions can replace genuine spiritual growth (7:1-23). Traditions based upon Biblical injunctions (Communion and baptism come immediately to mind) must be kept as ordinances of the Church, for they are specifically commanded in God’s Word. However, even these important aspects of worship must be based upon a real and saving relationship with Jesus Christ; they can never replace it. These and other ways of distancing ourselves from the Savior call for personal examination. Let us find great solace in the promise of God: “Draw nigh unto God, and He will draw nigh to you” (James 4:8a).